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Students often wonder why they have to write in math class. In fact, the purpose of a math essay is for students to demonstrate their understanding of mathematical ideas and concepts. Both high school and college students have to write math essays. Though it is a specific type of writing, you can follow many of the same guidelines for writing used in other subjects.

Topic

The first step to writing a math essay is choosing a topic. One option is to choose a mathematical concept you find interesting, such as one which you discussed in class but want to explore further. Alternatively, choose a problem that you've solved. For this type of essay, you state the problem and solution and explain how you arrived at the answer. For either type of essay, brainstorm what about the topic or problem intrigues you. For example, consider why you chose to delve deeper into that particular concept or explain the math for that specific equation.

Audience

Just like essays in other subjects, math essays require you to consider your audience. Mathematician P.R. Halmos suggests in his article, "How to Write Mathematics," thinking of a particular person when writing, especially one whose math ways "can stand mending." Therefore, unless directed otherwise, write as if your audience has the same basic level of math skills as you. Though you are writing a math essay to explain an idea or solution, you also want to persuade your reader that your methodology is the best one. Keep in mind your professor or teacher is not the main audience member as he already understands the concept.

Concept Essay Organization

A math essay about a concept looks similar to essays in other classes; it is, in fact, an expository essay. For this, you investigate a mathematical concept, develop further ideas about the theory based on research and make a claim in the form of a thesis statement. To write the essay, start with an introduction by stating the topic and its import. The introduction includes your claim about the theory. Develop the claim in subsequent paragraphs using evidence from your research as support. Conclude by tying up any loose ends and readdressing the theory in light of the information you provided.

Equation Essay Organization

For an equation essay, state the problem and solution directly in the introduction; explain the significance of the problem and your rationale for solving it as you did. The significance and rationale are similar to a thesis statement, providing the basis for your argument. Write a paragraph clearly explaining how you approach the problem, thus giving the reader a guide to follow. For a complex problem, include a graph that helps demonstrate the result of your equation, explaining explicitly what the graph shows. Similarly, define variables precisely with phrases such as "Let n be any real number." Describe your method for solving the problem, guiding your reader through the formulas you used and your reasons for using them.